White has been Illinois secretary of state since 1999 — and won all 102 counties in victories in 2002, 2006, 2010 and 2014. His current term is a record sixth term. White became the state’s longest-serving secretary of state on May 30, 2014. He also said in 2016 that he would not seek reelection in 2018 — then, he changed his mind.

Under White, Illinois’ organ and tissue donor program has become one of the largest in the country. His office said White also strengthened DUI laws, changed the truck driver licensing program and overhauled teen driving guidelines, which resulted in a decrease in traffic fatalities and drunken driving deaths.

Before becoming secretary of state, White was Cook County recorder of deeds and served 16 years in the Illinois General Assembly.

Jesse White has led a very interesting life. He played seven seasons of minor-league baseball in the Chicago Cubs organization, was an Army paratrooper and member of the Illinois National Guard and Reserve, followed by a 33-year career as teacher and administrator with Chicago Public Schools.